Power Plant Control Operator

Fayetteville Public Works Commission; Fayetteville (NC); On-site; USD 41,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plans

401(k) Plan

Onsite gym

Job summary

Fayetteville Public Works Commission is seeking a knowledgeable Power Plant Control Operator to monitor and operate equipment, ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations, and analyze data to optimize performance during assigned shifts.

You will track alarms, troubleshoot issues, tag systems for maintenance, forecast generation needs, and train junior operators while coordinating with electric and natural gas dispatchers.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or certification in a technical field with at least 3 years of power plant ops.
• High school diploma with at least 5 years of industrial plant experience, including 3 years in power plant operations.
• A combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to the above.

Responsibilities

• Operate power plant equipment per procedures and safety limits.
• Monitor systems, troubleshoot issues, and provide technical support.
• Track alarms, document findings, and report deviations.
• Tag systems for maintenance and supervise work.
• Record readings, generation, and auxiliary usage.
• Forecast generation needs based on usage and climate.
• Train subordinate operators as needed.
• Coordinate with dispatchers.
• Work rotating shifts including evenings, nights, weekends, on-call.

Skills

Power plant ops

Safety procedures

Emergency protocols

Algebra/calculation

Record-keeping

Communication

Education

Associate degree in technical field

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Industrial control software

Job description

About the Role

Fayetteville Public Works Commission is seeking a knowledgeable and detail-oriented Power Plant Control Operator to support safe, reliable, and efficient operations within our Power Plant. In this role, you will monitor and operate equipment both locally and remotely, ensure systems respond as expected, and analyze operational data to optimize performance during assigned shifts.

Description

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong technical expertise who enjoy critical thinking, problem-solving, and contributing to essential utility operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate Power Plant equipment in accordance with established procedures, guidance, and safety limits.
• Monitor operational systems, troubleshoot issues, and provide technical support.
• Track alarms, investigate system deviations, and document findings.
• Tag systems for maintenance and monitor work being performed.
• Record readings, disruptions, electrical generation, and auxiliary usage.
• Forecast and calculate generation/power needs based on usage, climate, and equipment availability.
• Train subordinate operators as needed.
• Coordinate with electric and natural gas utility dispatchers.
• Work a rotating shift schedule, including evenings, nights, weekends, extended hours, and on-call assignments.

What You’ll Bring

• Thorough understanding of power plant systems, operations, and equipment.
• Knowledge of safety procedures, emergency protocols, and clearance tagging.
• Familiarity with electrical systems, motor control centers, and boiler chemistry.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and experience resolving operational issues.
• Ability to perform algebraic and mathematical calculations.
• Strong record-keeping and organizational abilities.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree/certification in industrial science, engineering, or a related technical field with a minimum of 3 years of power plant operations experience
• High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 5 years of industrial plant experience, including 3 years in power plant operations, OR
• A combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to the above

Special Requirements

• Functional Employment Test (FET)
• Must carry a pager, be on call, and report on-site within designated timeframes

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb stairs and ladders
• Ability to operate manual valves, breakers, access doors, and similar equipment
• Ability to differentiate colors
• Ability to perform all essential job functions

Work Environment & Safety

• Exposure to typical power plant hazards
• Use of required protective equipment following PWC Safety Manual guidelines

What We Offer

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options.
• Group Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• Cafeteria plan and flexible benefits program
• Wellness program with incentives and benefit credits through Know Your Number participation
• Onsite Gym and Onsite Medical Facility.

Retirement & Financial Benefits

• Pension through the NC Local Government Employees’ Retirement System.
• 401(k) Match Retirement Plan.
• 457 Plan for additional retirement savings.
• The opportunity to work for an award‑winning utility recognized for excellence, reliability, and community stewardship
• A mission‑driven environment where leadership, innovation, and operational excellence directly impact the quality of life for the community we serve.

Work‑Life Balance & Support

• Paid Holidays and PTO with rollover options.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Career Development

• Mentorship and career development programs, and opportunities for advancement.

EMPLOYER’S RIGHTS

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
• PWC does not offer employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Grade-408 $29.58-$38.98/hourly